Prof Zayts-Spence delivers a keynote speech at the Hong Kong Women Health Symposium.
The Centre for the Humanities and Medicine (CHM) at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) is reinforcing its commitment to advancing women's health and health communication through key strategic engagements in the local community. Representing the Centre, Director Professor Olga Zayts-Spence recently participated in two major initiatives: delivering a keynote address at the Hong Kong Women Health Symposium and joining the inaugural council of The Hong Kong Menopause Society (THKMS).
Professor Zayts-Spence opened the Symposium with her keynote address, titled "The Modern Woman's Health Timeline: From Menarche to Menopause and Beyond." In her presentation, she highlighted the importance of women's health across the lifespan and brought attention to the issue of menopause often being left out of conversations when taking about women's reproductive health.
Professor Zayts-Spence noted the need for robust community support and institutional backing. "The average life expectancy for women in Hong Kong has now risen to 88.7 years. This means that women, on average, spend nearly one-third of their lives in menopause and post-menopause," she noted. "Therefore, it is a crucial issue that cannot be overlooked as it ensures women's continuous participation in social and work lives. Greater attention is needed to this topic."
Further cementing CHM's role in community health advocacy and knowledge exchange, Professor Zayts-Spence recently attended the inauguration ceremony of the Hong Kong Menopause Society (THKMS), where she has also been appointed as a Council Member. THKMS is a newly established non-profit organisation committed to promoting public education, advocacy, and support for women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. The Society was formally inaugurated in the presence of Dr Ronald Lam Man Kin, Director of Health, along with THKMS's founders – Dr Zara Chan Lok, Dr Rebecca Lau, and Dr Laurena Law – and other professionals dedicated to advancing menopause care in Hong Kong.
Professor Zayts-Spence commented, "I am honoured to be part of these important initiatives. The inauguration of THKMS marks a significant step forward in supporting women's health and well-being. As a Council member, I look forward to working with colleagues to create meaningful resources and opportunities for women, families, and healthcare professionals."
The Centre for the Humanities and Medicine (CHM) at HKU remains deeply committed to women's health and health communication. The Centre anticipates future collaborations with THKMS, supporting initiatives that promote healthcare innovation and empower women.
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